Programme
What you've all been waiting for... the Manchester Day Limmud 2010 Programme. Please note that this is still a bit provisional - there are likely to be a few changes to precisely which sessions are taking place when, so do double check before the day itself - but it will give you an idea of what will be happening... !
Session 1 10.00-11.10
Ann Angel
Sidramatics
Torah reading is at the heart of our services. It is a central spiritual moment with the potential to be a dramatic highlight, bringing home the central teachings of Judaism in a vivid, engaging way. We will explore narrative and dramatic possibilities. We will discuss how to form and nurture a group confident to study a Torah portion and present it in a creative, dynamic but also traditionally Midrashic way. Inspired by Amitai Lau-Lavie and ‘Storahtelling’, this is intended as a sustainable UK model to boost participation in text study and highlight the relevance of the Torah service!
David Fligg
Music in a Dark Place
Composers Pavel Haas, Gideon Klein, Hans Krása and Viktor Ullmann, were imprisoned in Terezin (Theresienstadt) concentration camp during WW2, yet they still produced some remarkable compositions in that dark place. Though their lives were tragically cut short when they were deported to Auschwitz, this lecture will argue that they were destined to become some of Europe’s most significant composers. With the aid of musical examples and contemporary accounts, the session will explore this intriguing hypothesis. It will look at how these musicians, and Gideon Klein in particular, created great music in adversity.
Lionel Ross
The Laptop is Mightier than the Sword
So you want to write your first book! Inspiration, perspiration, ideas and opinions. The Craft of writing. Keeping your reader’s attention. Excitement & Incitement. Selling entertainment and education in one package. Choosing your target readership. The soul-destroying quest for a publisher. Marketing your work
Sarah Polak
Cyber Bullying and Internet Safety
Do you have a computer? Do your children use it? Do your children use the internet? Yes? Then you cannot afford to miss this session. This interactive session outlines the possible risks and dangers that could occur over the internet and highlights constructive ways to avoid them. The programme delves into the issues of internet safety and online bullying. This is a good opportunity for parents to discuss their concerns in a relaxed group atmosphere and explore ways to help prevent problems from arising.
Sharon Shenhav
Choosing Dayanim
The experience of being the only woman to serve on the Israeli Commission to Appoint Dayanim for six years
As a women’s rights lawyer specializing in religious divorce and the problems of agunot, Sharon has represented hundreds of women in the Israeli rabbinical courts in the last 30 years. In 2002, she was elected by the Israeli Bar Association to be their representative on the Commission to Appoint Dayanim which is headed by the Minister of Justice and includes the two Chief Rabbis (Sephardi and Ashkenazi), two Dayanim from the Appelate Bet Din, a minister appointed by the Prime Minister, two Members of Knesset and two members of the Bar Association. She was the only woman on the commission and served two terms for a total of 6 years. This session will include a review of her personal experiences, some of which are hilarious but most are worrisome and sad.
Tom Griffiths
The Fever and the Flea
This session will weave a Yiddish folk-tale into a modern story of conflict and hope. It will chronicle the efforts by a community activist and an Alliance of people across the Jewish community in Greater Manchester to make a practical difference in the lives of Jewish people with mental health problems. Through stories and images, it will explore the problems of stigma and internal divisions within the community which leave many vulnerable people isolated and distressed. It will also illustrate how external agencies have ignored and overlooked these problems for too long. The audience will be encouraged to respond to and participate in these challenges
Yaakov Wise
My Child/Grandchild Has Become Ultra-Frum, What Do I Do Now?
One of the most radical changes in the Jewish world over the last fifty years is the phenomenon of the ‘baal tshuvah’ (returnee to Orthodoxy). The youngster who becomes much more frum than his/her family. Why is this happening and what should parents and grandparents do about it? Looking at the historic, cultural and religious context in which the baal tshuvah movement developed, the session will offer practical advice and support to families whose youngsters have been ‘aished;’ taken a much more religious path in life. Illustrated with real cases
Yossi Mekelberg
Middle East Update
What should we make of the current situation in the Middle East, especially after recent events? Yossi Mekelberg, an analyst from leading think-tank Chatham House, brings his experience and knowledge to set the latest developments in context and provide his thoughts about where Israel goes from here.
Session 2 11.20-12.30
Chavruta
Refectory
Chavruta is traditional Jewish study in small groups or pairs – and a Limmud mainstay. We will provide materials, using one of Limmud’s renowned Chavruta books. Learn at your own speed and in your own way - all you need do is turn up, read, discuss and enjoy!
Barbara Goldstone, Clive Lawton, Jeremy Newmark, Sam Westrop, Joy Wolfe
What Do We Think About…?
What is the future of the Manchester Jewish Community? What should our stance on supporting Israel be and how far is criticism legitimate? How should we manage our relations with other faith communities? Where is the best Kosher restaurant in the world? This is your chance to see what some of our communal leaders and opinion-makers think about topics of the day in a panel debate chaired by Clive Lawton. Come armed with questions!
Bennett Arron
Script Writing for Television
A workshop, hosted by award-winning writer and comedian Bennett Arron, for all those interested in writing sitcom scripts and/or sketches for television. Participants will be told how to structure scripts, work on character, develop plot etc as well as being shown what mistakes to avoid. There will be the opportunity for the participants to write a short script/sketch during the session.
So come along with pen, paper and ideas
Deborah Freeman
William Holman Hunt, Pre-Raphaelite Artist and Zionist – And Me
An account of the life and work of pre-Raphaelite artist and Zionist William Holman Hunt. How Manchester Art Gallery, the house Hunt built in Jerusalem in 1876, a theatre company in London, and his famous painting The Scapegoat, inspired Deborah Freeman`s new play Scapegoats. Be part of the creative process. Act Two of this controversial play uses Hunt`s original letters from the John Rylands Library. With extracts from these and from the play, participants will engage with issues of Zionism, identity, art, and share the excitement of how a new play is made.
Eric Moonman
Looking Back in Anger or Amusement?
Was the 2010 General Election quite so earth-moving or was it the same old politics dusted up? For now, there are some remarkable things to watch out for.
Gideon Conn
Gideon Conn in concert
Manchester’s own Jewish troubadour performs some of his soulful and vibrant material.
Leah Burman
Hypnotherapy with Young People - An Experiential Workshop (for adults).
An experiential workshop providing an introduction to hypnotherapy for children and young people aged 6 -18 including the benefits and potential outcomes.
Nathan Abrams
Porn Again Jews
Just like their counterparts in Hollywood, many Jews have performed in its seedier cousin, the adult film industry. In this illustrated talk and discussion, we’ll explore those performers, who include Ron Jeremy, Nina Hartley and Joanna Angel, as well as the roles they’ve played and their films. Warning: adults only.
Michael Shire
The Four Children of the Haggadah
The four children of the Haggadah are a much loved component of the Passover Seder but what exactly is the message of the passages and how did they come about. We will examine the original texts and deduce new meanings of the four related to Greek philosophy, the number four and the theology of childhood. Something to share at your next Seder and to gain a greater understanding of the Haggadah, rabbinic texts and of course our children!
Session 3 13:20-14:30
Adam Taylor
From The Year Dot…
A quirky and original poetic take on the Biblical creation story, encompassing evil, guilt, atonement, Jewish hell, Jewish singledom and Jewish gangsters. Plus other things Jewish and not so Jewish. “Understated tone and deadpan comedy directly from the tradition of comic stand-up poets” (Independent); “offbeat satirical poetry … pithily crisp observation”; (Sunday Times); “irreverent yet striking poems” (Times)
Annette Boeckler
How To Pronounce Biblical Hebrew Correctly
Is it za-horayim or zo-horayim? When is it ‘a’, when is it ‘o’? When is the sheva sounded, when is it not? Everybody who leyns in his/her synagogue will have encountered questions like this. There are of course tikkun editions that show how to read. If you are, however, interested in the rules, if you want to understand the reasons behind these differences, then come to this session. You will get an overview about the problems and about the rules that apply to pronounce biblical Hebrew correctly (both, according to the Jewish tradition and according to philological rules, which sometimes is not identical) and will become free from relying on the tikkun in these issues.
Howard Jacobson
The Finkler Question
Howard Jacobson will be talking about his new novel, The Finkler Question - to be published in August by Bloomsbury. A tragi-comic novel, set in Britain now, about Jewish identity crisis caused by perceived fear of renewed anti-Semitism hitching a free ride on the back of anti-Zionism. Unless that isn't happening at all, which deepens the identity crisis even further.
Jeremy Newmark
Boycotts and Walkouts - Responding to Contemporary anti-Semitism
A discussion on the Jewish community’s efforts regarding Durban II, boycott activity, and working with NGOs/faith groups.
Karen Jochelson
Freedom of Religion
The past decade has seen new human rights and discrimination law which provides rights for those holding religious and other beliefs but also potentially challenges the way religious institutions organise themselves. The new Equality Act 2010 galvanised religious and secular groups who expressed concern about the impact of the legal framework on religious institutions’ right to deliver services or employ individuals in a way that is consistent with their faith. The talk looks at discrimination experienced by people due to their religion or belief and looks at legal challenges around the right to manifest one’s religion or belief. The talk will explain the background to these issues and identify issues for discussion by the group.
Kosha Dillz
In Concert
Limmud is proud to present New Jersey's hottest Jewish rap sensation Kosha Dillz performing material from his latest album 'Beverly Dillz' and more plus discussing his rollercoaster ride to becoming a superstar in the international hip-hop world.
Mark Solomon
Einstein’s God
Albert Einstein described himself as “a deeply religious nonbeliever,” and when a rabbi telegrammed him in 1929 to ask if he believed in God, he replied, “I believe in Spinoza’s God who reveals himself in the orderly harmony of what exists, not in a God who concerns himself with the fates and actions of human beings.” We will read other thought-provoking statements of Einstein about God and religion, consider his relationship to Judaism, and discuss religion, science and our beliefs today
Session 4 14:50-16:00
Daniel Anderson
Soul Dynamics: Kabbalah’s 10 Life Changing Principles
In today’s increasingly demanding, highly pressured, 24/7 environment, spiritual fulfilment often comes a poor second to stress, anxiety and frustration. In this interactive workshop, you will learn how to regain your balance and composure by understanding Kabbalah’s 10 underlying principles, and in the process unravel the secret to a purposeful life.
Shabbat Resouled
The Ruach and Music of Shabbat Resouled
Allow yourself to be sucked into the spirit of Shabbat Resouled, the musical service at Finchley Progressive Synagogue (third Friday of every month). In this performance, the musicians will share some of the music that they play for the prayers in the service and Rabbi Neil Janes will help us on our journey through the liturgy. Music will include original compositions by Dean Staker and novel arrangements of more familiar melodies. Support materials will be provided, including words and some chord sheets. Bring your enthusiasm and voices and be prepared to be uplifted.
Dianne Mehr
Israeli and Simcha Dancing for All the Family.
Let your hair down and have fun at the Israeli & Simcha Dance Party with Dianne. A mixture of easy line, circle and partner dances.
Great fun for kids and adults of all ages. For all the family! No previous dance experience required.
Douglas Murray
2010 - An International Odyssey
Since Israel's 2009 operation in Gaza , the World's political landscape has shifted. America has a new President in the White House, Britain has a Conservative-Liberal government and Europe is represented by an virtual unknown from Wigan with no foreign-policy background who has never been elected to anything. What does this mean for the future of the Middle East? Author and Political Commentator Douglas Murray will guide you through the 2010 International landscape and what hopes and hazard lie in the way of Middle East Peace.
Gordon & Michelle Kaye
Around the World with Eighty Jews
In September 2004 Michelle and Gordon Kay gave up jobs and life in Borehamwood, London, and went travelling around the world, visiting 17 countries in just over 300 days. Find out about the shuls they saw, the people they met and how they managed to celebrate Yom Kippur un Moscow, Chanukah in Mumbai, Purim in Cusco, Pesach in Mexico City and Shabbat in the Amazonian jungle.
Ian Vellins
Nazi Looted Art: Villains, Victims and Claimants.
In the last few years restoration proceedings have been started in the US courts by Jewish descendents, seeking to recover valuable paintings stolen by the Nazis from Jewish owners, and now hanging in art galleries and collections in Europe and the USA. This illustrated session will examine the fate of the original Jewish owners, the strange recent cases involving paintings by Picasso, Degas, Klimt, Schiele, Matisse, Pissaro, Van Gogh and others, and the twists and turns in the litigation.
Marc Saperstein
Islam and the People of the Book: An Overview of Contacts Through the Ages
A whistle-stop tour with topics including: Muhammad and the Jews of Arabia, legal status following the Muslim conquest, the world of the Cairo Geniza, the “Golden Age” in Spain, new homes in the Ottoman Empire after 1492, the impact of Zionism. An attempt to evaluate the impact of Islamic policy and culture on Jews living in Islamic lands from the perspective of historical study rather than ideological commitment.
Natan Levy
Ever Since Noah: The Dilemma of the Jewish Carnivore
From Adam (an avowed vegetarian) to Goebbels (another avowed vegetarian) the Jewish relationship to eating animals is complex and nuanced. From Noah’s first taste of flesh, to the clandestine world of organic kosher chickens, we will explore the razor’s edge of the Jewish carnivore’s dilemma. Come tuck in to the myths, ethics, and halacha of eating meat, Jewishly.
Warren Elf with Mohammed Amin, Tahara Amin, Bob Day, Shamim Miah and Pasha Shah
Interfaith Perspectives on the situation in Israel Today
Having spent nine days together in Israel and the West Bank, these Jews, Christians and Moslems share a passion about what they saw and what they believe needs to be done to improve the position for Israelis and Palestinians living within Israel and the Occupied Territories. We will make a short presentation about our trip, our experiences, feelings and thoughts and invite participants in the session to join in a discussion on the issues. How can we make sense out of this very complex situation? Maybe we can help you or you can help us to do so!
Session 5 - 16.20 to 17.30
Alex Klein
Al Jolson You Ain't Heard Nothing Yet
Stories, music, anecdotes and the Jewish Jolson with recordings you wouldn't associate Jolson with.
Clive Lawton
Who Cares about the Temple?
The ‘Three Weeks’ is about to start during which traditionally we intensify our mourning for the destroyed Temple, culminating in the great fast day of Tisha b’Av. But why should we mourn the Temple? Aren’t we better off without this relic of primitive forms and assumptions about worship and God, or are we, as Jewish tradition would have it, fatally crippled as a people till we get one back?
Janet Taylor
Inclusive Synagogues for all Disabled People
The presenter will share her own experiences of being a Jewish person with a hidden disability at shul and cheder and set out how shuls can be made more accessible for people with hidden and visible disabilities. There will then be a discussion using scenarios, so that disabled and non-disabled congregants can share their own experiences of access issues in shuls.
Marvin Shaw
Kosher Happiness - The Holistic Way to Spiritual Joy and Fulfilment
A fun, uplifting and therapeutic workshop based around the unique new book Kosher Happiness. Delivered engagingly by the author who's aiming to inspire and involve you in an exciting new venture to promote well-being and spread happiness to all. Be prepared to explore and enjoy. Stay Cool, Have Fun!
Nathan Abrams
The Unnatural Jew
The Western Jew of the Diaspora is unnatural. The Garden of Eden has gone forever. By that, I mean, he does not belong in nature. The natural world is negative in the Jewish mindset as we have become ‘the People of the Book’ finding in homeland in text. We are an extraordinarily urban people. The Jew is urban and urbane, located overwhelmingly in a metropolitan landscape. This session will explore this stereotype and self-projection of the Jew in popular culture.
Richard Gold
That's Funny, You Don't Look Anti-Semitic.
Antisemitism is increasingly found in discussions of Palestine and Israel. This session will examine the use of this discourse of Antisemitism by the left and by liberals, who themselves would be horrified by any association with Antisemitism. It will discuss the consequences of this development for Jews in Britain today.
Mohammad Amin, David Berkeley
Your people will be my people
David Berkley and Mohammed Amin are a regular double act at Limmud. Today they will discuss the differing attitudes of Judaism and Islam regarding conversion into the religion, and also address the controversial subject of what Islam has to say about those who convert out of it.
Session 6 - 18.20 to 19.30
Dena Ryness
Kosher Nutrition
Judaism has always emphasised the importance of looking after one’s body, and the Rambam (Maimonides) in particular offered some sound nutritional advice. So why is Jewish food associated with high-fat content, and why do Jewish holidays provide us with an excuse for over-indulgence? This session explores the history of Jewish cuisine, and evaluates its nutritional content, offering healthy alternatives to popular dishes.
Sharon Shenhav
The Israeli Women's Rights Lawyer And The Iranian Ayatollah
This session will describe the unusual meeting between the speaker, an Israeli women's rights lawyer and an Ayatollah from Teheran who is a Professor of Islamic Law. The two met at the Rockefeller Foundation Conference Centre in Italy and conducted a series of discussions comparing religious law on marriage and divorce. As a result of these discussions, they decided to organize an interfaith conference on marriage and divorce. Sharon will discuss the conference, which was hosted by the Rockefeller Foundation in
Yitzak
Yitzak in Concert
Buzzing Klezmer band Yitzak will entertain us into the evening with their own blend of traditional eastern european tunes bringing all to a dancing frenzy to see out your Limmud Day with a party!
